David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Our visitors from Portugal are extremely welcome. They come at an interesting juncture because Senator McDowell and I are going through this legislation with a fine toothcomb. We have spoken for nearly 90 hours on Committee Stage and it is my intention to frustrate this Bill in every possible way I can. I noted on the last occasion we discussed this that the Minister referred to a situation in which a person was recommended and left on the list for years and years. I suggested to Senator McDowell that he include a time limit and I am glad to notice that he has done so. It would be in line with the attitude expressed by the Minister on a previous occasion for him to accept the amendment.

I am concerned that it might be assumed that a person who had been recommended, but whose name was not published, had behaved disgracefully in the meantime and so was banned from being considered. I also think it would be daft. If somebody has gone through the whole rigmarole of applying, preparing statements, making submissions etc., why should he or she be expected to repeat exactly the same material? As it all seems to be redundant, I strongly support Senator McDowell's amendment.